Global Security

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Learn to effectively negotiate the often competing demands of securing people, states and the natural environment in a complex global context.

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The need for understanding the global security landscape has never been more urgent. Alongside physical threats to our establishments and governments, our humanity is threatened, from human rights to rising geopolitical tensions. This online Global Security master’s will equip you with the skills to think about security issues holistically and to find practical solutions to the dilemmas they pose.

• Uncover some of society’s biggest security challenges, including climate change, terrorism and pandemics.
• Taught by the Faculty of Social Sciences & Policy – Ranked 5th in the UK for social sciences (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, 2025).
• Join the global conversation – your fellow students from across the world will bring their unique ideas and experiences to the discussion.
• A variety of multimedia tools and resources support your learning.
• Six annual entry points mean you can begin studying when it’s convenient for you.

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A 2:1 honours degree (or above) is normally required. Applicants with a 2:2 (or overseas equivalent) will be considered where significant work experience has been undertaken in a related field.

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The application deadline for the next intake is 10 February 2026. Complete the form today to receive more information about the programme.

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*Tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase (capped at 7%) each academic year in line with King’s College London’s terms and conditions. Each increase comes into effect for the September teaching period each year. From September 2025 the module fee will be £1,702. Depending on your country of residence, you may also have to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) in addition to your tuition fees. Please find further information here.

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During the 21st century, security threats have multiplied exponentially across the world. They range from the traditional, such as strategic competition, nuclear proliferation and global responses to political violence, to the more contemporary, such as climate change, loss of biodiversity and human rights.

Global security issues affect every single one of us and, if not resolved, can have dire consequences. You can help find effective and sustainable solutions to these problems by learning how to better understand their causes and effects across the world.

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This programme showcases King’s academic and professional excellence. Developed by the Departments of Defence Studies and War Studies, it brings together world-leading scholars and practitioners whose expertise actively shapes policy in London and beyond.

What you’ll gain

A deep, conceptually rich understanding of global security issues, key threats, models, debates and alternative perspectives.

Insight from one of the most diverse groups of security studies experts worldwide.

Exposure to carefully curated readings, theories and research that broaden your analytical lens.

Meet your programme directors:

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This course will suit those who wish to discover emerging security concepts as well as the ingrained challenges we’ve faced for many years, such as war. Our first four modules provide a foundational understanding of the security field, and the advanced modules offer specialist knowledge in a variety of security areas.

You may want to take this course if you’re looking to progress your security career, are new to this career path, want to commit to research in this area or have a keen personal interest in the subject.

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The MA in Global Security offers a rich, varied online learning experience through:

• Topic-specific interactive lessons
• Explainer videos
• Readings and discussion forums
• Live webinars and activities that promote participation, debate and meaningful contribution

Together, these elements build your critical-thinking skills and expand your conceptual toolkit for engaging with diverse, and sometimes competing, perspectives on security and sustainable security challenges. These abilities are essential to the degree and translate directly into valuable professional expertise. The regular cycle of reading, discussion and assignments also strengthens time-management and organisational skills relevant across many workplaces.

Assessment formats include:

• Written essays
• Reviews
• Policy papers

Assessment is progressive, giving you regular feedback from instructors so you can develop and improve with each assignment.

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Designed specifically for an online audience, this course uses a range of activities to support learning, including discussion forums, online reading and interactive lectures. The flexible nature of the course allows you to study part-time, alongside your career and life commitments.

Our online students are based around the world, each ready to bring their own unique experiences and perspectives to your online discussions. You’ll also be able to make use of King’s online services, including the careers service, the online library and wellness/disability services.

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From non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to media to government, the field of global security is vast, offering exciting and challenging careers for those who wish to pursue them. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re taking the next leap in your career, this online Global Security Master’s will help you get you there.

Career paths may include roles in Civil Service, NGOs, local or national government, armed forces, ministries of foreign affairs and development, policy think tanks, or private, for example, risk assessment companies. It may also be suitable for journalists or parliamentary advisers reporting on international issues.

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There are six intakes per year: January, March, May, June, September and October.

For application deadlines, please complete the ‘Request for information’ form on this page, and an Enrolment Advisor will get back to you.